LBPD Blotter - June 20, 2024

Welcome to the LBPD Blotter!

As part of our ongoing commitment to external communications and providing valuable information to our community, the Department posts preliminary information about incidents that occurred the previous evening, including shootings and stabbings, as well as any other LBPD updates to the Department’s homepage and on the “News” tab of the Department’s website. This page will be updated as new incidents occur.

Here’s a recap of incidents occurring last night:

• Officers investigate a person with a gun with SWAT activation - 2000 block of Ocean Boulevard: On June 19, 2024 at approximately 9:57 p.m., officers responded to the 2000 block of East Ocean Boulevard regarding a man with a gun who fired shots into the air. Officers arrived on scene and saw a male adult suspect flee and run into a residence in the area of Gaviota Avenue and 1st Street. The suspect had a victim in the residence and was believed to be armed. The SWAT team responded and, with the help of hostage negotiators, safely rescued the uninjured hostage. After some time, officers deployed gas and took the suspect into custody. The suspect was arrested and transported to Long Beach City Jail for booking. The suspect was identified as Erick L. Smith, a 31-year-old resident of Los Angeles, who was booked for kidnapping, burglary, obstructing a peace officer, felon in possession of a firearm, assault with a firearm and false imprisonment. Bail is set at $1,200,000. The investigation is ongoing. 

• Murder 2300 block of Locust Avenue: Homicide detectives are investigating a murder of a female adult victim. A new release detailing the incidents is forthcoming and can be found here.

• Murder 2600 block of East Anaheim Street: Homicide detectives are investigating a murder of a male adult victim. A new release detailing the incidents is forthcoming and can be found here.